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"Good heavens," she murmured.
I laughed against her cheek.
"Did I offend them?"
She drew back just enough to look at me.
"Only if they're terribly prudish."
I kissed her once more, enjoying the way she smiled before her lips met mine.
Someone laughed near the fireplace, and a server entered with a tray of drinks. Everly glanced toward the reception room, then back at me.
The flush in her cheeks was lovely.
"I think I'd prefer somewhere with fewer people," she said.
I brushed a loose wave of hair away from her face.
"I have a suite upstairs. It's private, and there's a rather good view of the harbor."
She paused, studying me with an expression I couldn't quite read.
"Are you inviting me up to admire the view?"
"I suspect you could find a more interesting use for your time."
She laughed softly, and her hands settled against my chest.
"I was hoping you'd say something like that."
I wanted to lift her into my arms and carry her upstairs. With my wings, the narrow reception-room doorway, and the amount of attention we'd attract crossing the lobby, it would've been an idiotic idea.
I possessed some excellent bad habits. Public spectacle wasn't usually one of them.
Everly looked toward the ballroom, then touched the lower edge of her mask.
"There's one thing I'd like to ask before we go anywhere."
"Go ahead."
"We haven't exchanged names."
I waited while she considered how to phrase what she wanted.
"I know this sounds a little strange, but I don't think I want to." She gave me a small, almost mischievous smile. "Tonight has been wonderful because I haven't had to explain myself to anyone. I'd rather keep you as my mysterious stranger for a few more hours."
Her fingers moved lightly over my chest.
"Would that bother you?"
"No. We can leave names out of it."
She looked relieved.
"Good. I don't want to spend tomorrow wondering whether I should look you up or what people might think. I'd rather have tonight."
She seemed to want a night she could leave behind when she returned to ordinary life.
